The Red Shoes (1948)

An aspiring ballerina (Moira Shearer) is taken under the wing of a renowned ballet impresario (Anton Walbrook), who intends to make her a star in the world of ballet. Complications arise when she falls in love with a young composer (Marius Goring), who proves an impediment to her career. Directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger (BLACK NARCISSUS). If A CHORUS LINE is to be believed, this is the movie that aspired many a young girl to become a dancer. Shot in eye popping three strip Technicolor by the great Jack Cardiff (DEATH ON THE NILE), it features a marvelous 17 minute ballet based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale choreographed by Robert Helpmann (he also has a featured role in the film) which is tied in to the movie's finale. Heavily melodramatic, the film does have a serious theme of one's commitment to one's Art over one's personal life. The Oscar winning score is by Brian Easdale. Even if you're not into dance or ballet, this is a visual treat worth seeking out. With Leonide Massine, Albert Basserman, Ludmilla Tcherina and Irene Browne.